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Diagnosis and Testing|Removal and Installation > < Front Drive Halfshafts
Front Drive Halfshafts - Front Drive Halfshafts Puma 1998 (06/1997-12/2001)
Diagnosis and Testing

Symptom chart

NOTE:
NOTE:Do not re-install front drive halfshafts without first checking for wear.
  1. Carry out a visual check of the boots for tears and cracks.
  1. Carry out a visual check of the underbody for signs of splashes of grease around the front axle drive halfshafts; this may indicate that one of the boots or boot clamps is faulty.
  1. Carry out a check of the joint housing for leaks.
  1. Ensure that the correct self-locking stub axle nut has been fitted.

Pinpoint Tests

Symptom Possible Sources Action
Cracking, banging or grinding noises whilst driving.
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Insufficient or contaminated grease in the joints of the front axle drive halfshaft.
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Check, clean and renew the high-durability grease as necessary.
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Another component is touching a front axle drive halfshaft.
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Check and repair as necessary.
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Worn or damaged wheel bearing, brakes, suspension or steering components.
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Check and repair as necessary.
Vibrations at high speeds.
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Wheel imbalance.
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Balance the wheels. REFER to Section  205-04 Front Drive Halfshafts.
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Front wheel radial runout.
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Observe the removal and installation instructions for the front axle drive halfshafts.
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Front axle drive halfshafts incorrectly installed.
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Shaking vibrations when accelerating.
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Tripode joint angle is too large because of unsuitable ride height.
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Check that the vehicle height and spring height are correct.
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Front drive halfshaft has excessive wear or is faulty.
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Check and renew as necessary.
Tripode joint has come apart.
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The front drive halfshaft snap-ring is missing or has not engaged correctly in the differential.
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Renew the snap-ring.
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Engine and transmission not aligned correctly.
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Check engine mountings for faults and wear.
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Subframe or chassis distorted or buckled.
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Measure frame.
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Front suspension components worn or faulty.
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Check for worn bushes or deformed components (stabiliser, suspension arm, etc.) and renew as necessary.

Diagnosis and Testing|Removal and Installation > < Front Drive Halfshafts